All Good Things are Wild & Free

The Nantahala Gorge

The Gorge is the epicenter of outdoor adventure. Here, people of all ages can enjoy whitewater rafting and kayaking, zip lining, fishing, biking, jeep tours, horseback riding, hiking and gem mining. The 200,000 paddlers who come every year make the Nantahala River one of the most popular whitewater rafting rivers in the Southeast. With mostly Class I and II rapids, it is a great place for family fun; rafters as young as 6 years of age (or 60 pounds) can raft on the Nantahala River. A drive on U.S. 19 through the Gorge is worthwhile for scenic views, restaurants, picnic areas, and pull-offs to watch the rafters on the rushing waters.

The Nantahala River is also a popular fishing spot, especially when it comes to fly fishing. Trout Unlimited named the river one of 100 best trout streams in America. The Upper Nantahala is stocked and designated as a delayed harvest trout stream. Although the Lower Nantahala is supported by a delayed harvest stream, it’s not designated as delayed harvest, meaning folks do not need to follow delayed harvest fishing rules when fishing the Lower Nantahala and can use whatever lures or baits one likes.

Hiking in the Nantahala Gorge and surrounding Nantahala National Forest offers terrific trails and varied challenge levels. The best part? All trails welcome dogs, unlike in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park where pets are not allowed, so bring along your furry companion! Favorite insider hiking trails include:

• Appalachian Trail

• Bartram Trail

• Findley Falls

• Flint Ridge Trail

• Nantahala Bikeway

• Wesser Creek Trail

• Wesser Bald Fire Tower